Liposuction is possibly the most popular procedure for body contouring. It slims and contours the body to create a more flattering figure. The procedure requires a small incision, followed by insertion of a suction instrument beneath the skin to remove fat cells from specific areas of the body. Common target areas include the waist, back, hips, thighs, buttocks, and even the neck. After liposuction, compression garments will be required to minimize swelling and reduce pain.
Standard pain medication handles the minimal discomfort experienced after the procedures. Most of the pain and swelling subsides within 3-4 weeks, and after 6 weeks you will see the improvement in shape and contour. Liposuction by itself can often be done in office for smaller areas, while larger or multiple areas of the body will require a surgical center visit. Many patients opt to do liposuction in addition to surgery in order to achieve a more proportioned figure.
Liposuction Candidates:
As with any surgery, candidates for liposuction should be in good health without any medical conditions that would compromise the safety of the procedure.
Genetics influence body structure, and people often have a “problem area,” or an area that just will not slim down despite diet and exercise. Liposuction can help remove fat cells in a particular area, and as long as the patient maintains his or her ideal weight, the results are typically permanent.
Liposuction is not a weight loss tool, but an option for those that need body contouring.